The lake is conveniently located between Houston, Dallas, Austin and Shreveport making it the perfect meeting spot for families and friends. Houston County Lake is bordered by the towns of Crockett, Grapeland and Latexo.

dear visitor!

Please read some interesting facts about Houston County Lake

Perhaps one thing that makes HCL so special is the water feeding the lake. Unlike most area lakes that are fed from large, and often dirty tributaries, HCL is fed by year round springs, creeks, and Little Elkhart Creek. The springs help keep the lake cooler in all but the driest of weather. There are no gates at the dam, instead there is an overflow "donut", when water gets too high it flows into the hole feeding the creek below the dam (the donut allows enough water to escape to keep the stream fed). This keeps HCL at levels much higher than the majority of lakes in Texas, especially in periods of severe drought.

The first thing most people notice is the water clarity, though it is stained from iron ore deposits it has much better clarity than almost any lake in the area. The lake has been a popular swimming hole for locals since it was impounded in 1965. Legend tells a story of workers clearing the main part of the lake after construction of the dam. Locals tell of heavy rains causing the lake to fill up much quicker than hoped for. Due to the rapid filling of the lake they were unable to get some of the machinery out and the lake filled burying the tractors under the waters of the newly formed lake.

Welcome To Houston County Lake! Enjoy the nature!

The lake has many subdivisons and is becoming increasingly developed as growth in the major cities spreads. It is still in early stages of development and is far from the likes of a Lake Conroe of Lewisville. It still has and will continue to have the small town charm for many years.

Technical data on the lake

located 9 miles outside of historic Crockett Texas

was impounded in 1965

approx. 1330 acres

there is a modern T.P.W.D. boat launch at the dam. It is free to launch and has free parking. There is also a launch at the Crockett Family Resort

there is no gas, food or stores on the lake. (Closest is Crockett @ 9 miles) so shop first. There is a small store with limited supplies at Crockett Family Resort

there are no boat rentals on H.C.L. Rentals are available in Dallas and sometimes Houston

Verizon phones work great, ATT in some areas with Sprint not working at all (Our feedback)

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What We Offer Family or Business, spend your time at HCL

Get the Net Fishing Guide Service

"Get the Net" service will use their knowledge, experience, and dedication to provide a quality and enjoyable fishing experience. Each trip will be custom designed to meet the needs and ability of each individual.